Generic Name: Vilazodone (vil-AZ-oh-done)

Overview

Viibryd (vilazodone) is classified as an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). It is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It may also be used to treat anxiety, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

This medication may improve sleep patterns, mood, appetite, and energy levels and may help to increase interest in daily living.

This information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your healthcare provider.

It works by helping change certain chemicals in the brain, which professionals refer to as “neurotransmitters.” It is not yet well-understood why changing these neurochemicals results in symptom relief for the conditions this drug is commonly prescribed for.

How to Take It

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine should be taken with food. Continue to take this medicine even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Side Effects

Side effects that may occur while taking this medicine include:

diarrhea

insomnia

abnormal dreams

dizziness

changes in sexual ability

nausea

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

tingling/numbness

difficulty concentrating

weakness

pounding heartbeat

restlessness

sweating

chest pain

confusion

Warnings & Precautions

DO NOT share this medication with any person under the age of 18 without consulting your doctor.

Let your doctor or pharmacist know if you are allergic to this medication, ingredients in this medication, or if you have any other allergies.

DO NOT use Viibryd if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days.

Talk to your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have epilepsy, a history of suicidal thoughts, narrow angle glaucoma, a clotting or bleeding disorder, liver or kidney disease, or a history of drug abuse.

Older adults may be more sensitive to some of the side effects of Viibryd, including experiencing a salt imbalance (hyponatremia), which can increase the risk of falling.

Inform your dentist or doctor about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) before having surgery.

For an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. For non-emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Drug Interactions

Before taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. This includes supplements and herbal products.

Dosage & Missed Dose

This medication comes in tablets of three strengths: 10 mgs, 20 mgs, and 40 mgs. You may start with 10 mg daily dose taken with food for a week. The dosage increases to 20 mg daily in the second week, and 40 mg daily for the third week.

If you skip a dose, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses or take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (preferably not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.

Pregnancy/Nursing

If you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It may harm a developing fetus. It is NOT known if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. It is recommended that you DO NOT breast-feed while taking this medicine unless your doctor or pediatrician has recommended it.